This Small Town Near Cleveland Is Peak Midwestern Vibes
By Nikki Rhoades|Published March 07, 2022
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
Cleveland has a flair that’s uniquely its own. Forest City, otherwise known as the Best Location in the Nation, is full of friendly people, delicious dining destinations, fascinating hiking spots, and so much more. However, the small towns surrounding the city have their own flair that is worth checking out. Today, we’re at one quaint Summit County city that is delightfully Midwestern in its ambiance. Ready for a day trip? Let’s check the most Midwestern town near Cleveland:
Today we're going to take a look at Cuyahoga Falls, a city with a population of over 51,000 that hasn't lost its small town atmosphere.
This circa 1945 postcard is just a small piece of history from this charming Ohio town. Cuyahoga Falls was founded in 1812, and it was originally called Manchester. Its name was changed due to the existence of the other Manchester, Ohios (there was a Manchester in Summit County and in Adams County). Today, historic structures add to the ambiance of the area.
Cuyahoga Falls boasts a lovely Victorian downtown district, which is one of the most charming features of many Midwestern towns.
Plenty of these charming storefronts host incredible Cuyahoga Falls businesses. The downtown area also frequently hosts festivals, fairs, and other interesting events.
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While downtown Cuyahoga Falls is the perfect place to pick up local art, the locale also features art all its own.
The floor-to-ceiling windows in this dining space overlook local wildlife and the roaring waters of the Cuyhoga River. With outdoor dining as well, visitors can enjoy indulgent comfort food while they listen to lyrical birdsong and rumbling waters.
This lovely and historic local park is part of Gorge Metro Park, and it is a true treat. Complete with a scenic overlook and butterfly garden, there's something to see in each and every season.
Ohio's only national park, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, is also right around the corner.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park spans over 32,500 acres and is home to waterfalls, a railroad, and more. Select areas are open at night, which means you can even go night hiking here to look for nocturnal wildlife. If you do take a night hike, remember to take a buddy for safety purposes.
Locals love exploring this the most Midwestern town near Cleveland. There’s just so much to love about Cuyahoga Falls… and we’d love to hear from you in the Facebook comments about your previous adventures in town. Or, if you’d like to recommend another must-see small town near Cleveland, complete our nomination form.
Love taking day trips near home? Is so, be sure to check out our list of day trip destinations in Northeast Ohio. You’ll find something new to experience during each and every season.
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